Fondaparinux: Protection Against Post-Surgical Blood Clots

Fondaparinux is a blood thinner used to prevent blood clots from forming.

When a blood clot forms in a vein in the legs, it is called
deep vein thrombosis
(DVT). DVT can block blood flow through the vein. Symptoms include pain, swelling, warmth, and a change in skin color of the affected leg. Sometimes, symptoms do not occur unless a clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs. This is called
pulmonary embolism
and can be fatal.
People who undergo certain surgeries are at high risk of developing DVT. These include:

When Is Fondaparinux Prescribed?

If you are at risk for developing blood clots, your doctor may prescribe fondaparinux after certain types of surgery, including hip or knee replacement, hip fracture repair, or abdominal surgery. This medication may be prescribed to people who are very ill and have risk factors for blood clots. Fondaparinux may also be used along with other blood thinners to treat DVT and pulmonary embolism.

How Is Fondaparinux Given?

This medication is given as an injection under the skin.

What Are the Side Effects?

Fondaparinux can cause many side effects. Some of these include:

For people who have had hip or knee replacement, or hip fracture repair:

Who Should Not Take This Medication?

Like
all blood-thinning drugs, fondaparinux can cause excessive, dangerous bleeding. The risk of bleeding is greater for certain groups of people. You will not be able to take fondaparinux if you have any of these conditions:

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.